former presidents bush, clinton, and carter will also be in attendance along with 50 heads of state, making it one of the world's largest gathers in recent history. >> this is a test for us. >> reporter: the national task force says the country is prepared for keeping so many dignitaries safe. 11,000 soldiers have been set in place around the country to protect the mourners. >> we believe people will be watching the house of africa when we perform. >> reporter: this makeshift memorial outside of nelson mandela's former home in sweto is one of places where mourners have gathered. for a day of prayer. south africans of all races and religious backgrounds sang and praised for a man credited with united a country once bitterly divided. >> nelson mandela, this is a man who fought for me when i was not born yet. >> reporter: mandela's ex-wife winnie was among those attending the prayer services. now, anne-marie, these tributes still continue. there are children from a children's home. they're abandoned by their parents. they're singing tributes and they're mourning the loss of their tata,